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Hip…Hop…Hip…Hop HOLLYWOOD, CA - In
the heart of Hollywood is the hippest musical this year by far. J.O.B.
The Hip-Hopera tells two parables, from the Bible’s book
of Jobe and the tale of Cain and Abel, in the appropriate
setting of Los Angeles using a Hip Hop Record label as a
backdrop. In what could have been hokey
and cheesy on paper has turned into an internationally acclaimed
fringe festival hit, winning Best New Play from the Montreal
English Critics Circle. The script is smart, strong and
hilarious. Written by and starring
Jerome Sable and Eli Batalion, two individuals who not only
shine in their performance but leave a mark that these two are
force to be reckoned with. Sable and Batalion take on the
challenge of performing 10 roles, at times taking one role from
the other. They excel in humor and never once lose a character
in transition. Hats off to a job well done! Directed by the award winning
Stefan Novinski and talented choreographer Hassan Christopher,
this musical is a non-stop visually entertaining piece of
theater. The dancers - Shawn Beck-Gifford, Marissa Labog, Naomi
Rhoads, Aimee Zannoni and Hassan Christopher – prove to be a
gifted ensemble supporting the leads. Kudos to Ms. Labog – she
may be small, but the girl will dance circles around anyone who
challenges her. Musically, the show
intelligently mixes classical music with hip-hop that may haunt
some theatergoers. The audience is even treated to a live DJ, in
the name of DJ Celebrity, before the action begins to ‘set the
mood’. Smart thinking. Also showcased is the talent of Nikkema
Taylor, the sole female vocalist. She will appear whenever a
high note is needed. Unfortunately, that’s the only time when
one will see or hear her. The sound and lighting design
are also on target bringing the feel of being in a club just off
of Hollywood Boulevard. On a bonus note, in case the
audience member feels lost or missed any of the plot - the
actors gleefully recap the audience near the close in an
inspired comedy piece and one of the best moments of the show. Don’t let thoughts of the
Bible or the notion that it’s a musical without an orchestra
cloud the brain that would prevent your attendance. This show is
a definite must see. And there isn’t much time left - this
production, which opened late October, was been blessed with an
extension and must close on December 11th. So go Hip Hop a stop at J.O.B.
The Hip-Hopera. - Adrian Rennie |
Maestro Arts and ReviewsCopyright © 2005 The Maestro GroupAll rights reserved.Online Reviews: www.maestro.ws/arts |
